Louvin, 83, is fighting pancreatic cancer, and a July 30 surgery was unsuccessful in eradicating the disease. Medical costs are, of course, substantial, and friends are now helping to organize a benefit concert and auction in Bell Buckle, Tenn., where Louvin lives, on Saturday, Oct. 30.

"There might be a benefit show in the future," Louvin said in an August interview. "I wouldn't mind breathing a little freer for the rest of my time."

Louvin plans to co-host the benefit with Valerie Smith & Liberty Pike at the Bell Buckle Banquet Hall downtown. Details are still coming together, but plans are for a full music schedule to be posted at www.bellbucklebanquethall.com and www.charlielouvin.net.

The event will begin at noon, and tickets are $10, available at the Bell Buckle Cafe or by calling 931-389-0223.